Ørsted to develop 400MW Irish solar power projects with Terra Solar

Danish energy company Ørsted and Dublin-based renewable energy developer Terra Solar have announced a joint venture to develop a portfolio of Irish solar projects with a capacity of up to 400 MW. The large-scale projects have the potential to power over 90,000 Irish homes. The announcement adds further impetus to Ørsted’s solar pipeline in Ireland, which now totals over 600 MW.

Target for Completion: Ahead of 2030 Climate Action Plan

The planned solar projects are targeted for completion in advance of the year 2030, aligning with the Irish government’s 8 GW Climate Action Plan for solar energy. All projects are subject to obtaining grid route consent and a grid offer. This partnership emphasizes Ørsted’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio, particularly solar projects in Ireland, as part of its broader European strategy.

Renewable Electricity Routes and UK Market Entry

The renewable electricity produced by the 400 MW solar farm portfolio has multiple potential routes to market, including future RESS auctions and corporate power purchase agreements. This news follows Ørsted’s recent announcement of entering the UK solar market with a proposed 740 MW solar farm and associated battery storage in Nottinghamshire.

Stakeholder Quotes on the New Development

TJ Hunter, Senior Director, Development & Operations in UK & Ireland at Ørsted, stated, “We are delighted to extend our existing collaboration with Terra Solar on these projects contributing to Ørsted’s global goal of 17.5 GW of onshore renewables by 2030.” André Fernon, Director at Terra Solar, echoed the sentiment, “Terra Solar is delighted to work in partnership with Ørsted. With a combined capacity of up to 400 MW, this partnership will contribute significantly to Ireland’s low-carbon future.”

Ørsted’s Growing Renewable Portfolio in Ireland

Currently, Ørsted operates 378 MW of onshore wind across Ireland, producing enough power for over 230,000 homes. This new 400 MW Irish solar projects portfolio with Terra Solar adds to Ørsted’s already established presence in the renewable energy market in Ireland. Earlier this year, Ørsted also announced a partnership with ESB to develop an Irish offshore wind portfolio.

Ørsted’s Global Presence in Renewable Energy

Ranked as one of the world’s most sustainable energy companies, Ørsted has over 5.7 GW of onshore renewables either in operation, under construction, or consented across Europe and the United States. Ørsted’s Irish headquarters are located in Cork City, employing over 100 people.